Firmware is the software that runs on network equipment such as routers, switches, and VPN appliances. Firmware updates often contain bug fixes, security patches, and performance improvements that can prevent or mitigate vulnerabilities and attacks. By routinely upgrading all network equipment firmware, a network administrator can ensure that the network devices are running the latest and most secure versions of firmware and avoid exploiting known and fixed remote code execution vulnerabilities in the VPN appliance. References: https://www.comptia.org/training/books/network-n10-008-study-guide (page 462)